In return for shelter, seed transmission, and nutrients the endophyte produces secondary metabolites.

Some pathways produce metabolites that are precursors of more than one pathway.

Many species of fungi produce secondary metabolites called mycotoxins.

Some of these slightly altered cells might produce specific metabolites or antibodies that could be detected early.

It is not uncommon to produce toxic metabolites (e.g. chloroform).

Conversely, when a tissue is less metabolically active, it produces fewer metabolites which are simply washed away in blood flow.

Many fungi produce toxins, antibiotics and other secondary metabolites.

Many plants produce secondary metabolites, known as allelochemicals, that influence the behavior, growth, or survival of herbivores.

Fungi produce several secondary metabolites that are similar or identical in structure to those made by plants.

Many species produce metabolites that are major sources of pharmacologically active drugs.